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There are no hard and fast requirements that a music promoter must meet to be in business -- no certifications to earn. This means, however, that potential music promoters must find their own way to succeed in a highly competitive business. Using successful business methods, music promoters can turn their passion for music into a career.

Know the Music Scene

Get to know what's going on in the music industry where you live as well as nationally. Read trade papers and scan online music news daily. Attend local concerts and any event where musicians will play. You'll be most successful promoting music you personally like, so match what's popular with your musical interests. Find out who the promoters in the area are, who represents each group and which musicians are not currently represented.

Organize and Multitask

Set up both physical and computerized systems to organize all the information you'll need so you can find it quickly. A simple way to start might be to set up categories for musicians, venues, suppliers, vendors, laws, news and other promoters. You can then add or divide categories as needed. In a typical day, you will perform many tasks; if you focus on each, take notes and file the information as you go, you will stay on top of it.

Network and Communicate

Don't underestimate the value of networking in this business. Get to know city officials, venue operators, musicians, suppliers, entertainment lawyers and other arts promoters. These people can help you accomplish your goals as well as introduce you to others who can help. Communicate often, reply promptly and become known as someone who gets things done.

Be a Negotiator

You must be comfortable talking prices and costs, both what you will pay others and what your pay will be. Negotiate with everyone for the best prices. When you're starting out, agreeing to pay and receive a percentage of concert receipts may be better than upfront payments. Offer other rewards in lieu of payment, such as free concert tickets and food to your helpers. Remember everything is negotiable, and it doesn't hurt to ask for a better deal.

Get Experience

If possible, work for another promoter before going out on your own. Pay attention to all details and learn all you can about the business. Determine if you prefer one part of the business to another. After an event, think about what worked well and what did not, and what you would do differently. If no one is hiring promoters, see if you can shadow one to see event and concert planning from start to finish.

Take Classes

Though a degree is not necessary to be a music promoter, it can help to take classes from professionals. Many colleges now offer courses such as concert management, publicity, contracts and music business law.

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About the Author

Barbara Bean-Mellinger is an award-winning writer in the Washington, DC area. She writes nationally for newspapers, magazines and websites on topics including careers, education, women, marketing, advertising and more. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Pittsburgh.